Cornell Faculty Confront President Kotlikoff

What happened

Cornell suspended fraternity parties and social events through the end of the academic year after criticism and protests over its handling of a sexual assault case. The university also said it would add civil-rights staff, coordinate with New York State Police on trauma-informed investigators, and improve bystander-effect education. Jane Doe sued Cornell and seven Chi Phi members over an alleged October 2024 assault; the men deny wrongdoing, and some say contact was consensual or they were not involved. President Michael Kotlikoff apologized for harm she suffered and said Cornell had fallen short. Faculty senators delayed a no-confidence vote until at least October 28, with an electronic vote expected afterward.

How each side covered it

From the left

Left-leaning outlets framed the case as a test of whether campus systems can protect students and deliver trusted answers. The Boston Globe centered institutional trust and asked whether students could rely on the bodies charged with finding facts. The Guardian widened the story to fraternity life and campus culture. The New Yorker lingered on internet vigilantism and harassment tied to the outrage.

From the right

Right-leaning outlets emphasized failed leadership while warning against rushed punishment of accused students and fraternities. The Daily Mail faulted Cornell’s discipline record and highlighted fears that contested allegations were being prejudged. The Daily Wire cast the anger as selective compared with other campus assault cases. The New York Post cited Jane Doe’s attorney and police reports on swatting calls against her family.

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Cornell Faculty Confront President Kotlikoff

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What happened

How each side covered it

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